What Is a Surfboard Made Of?

Surfboards are relatively light and sturdy boards designed for surfing. They commonly feature a polyurethane (PU) or polystyrene (EPS) foam core encased in layers of fiberglass. However, manufacturers are continually experimenting with various materials, including composites, to develop more advanced boards.

Surfboards can be categorized by size and shape, with the most popular types being shortboards, longboards, and funboards. Shortboards excel at stunts and acrobatics, offering the highest maneuverability, making them favored by intermediate and advanced surfers. Longboards, with their larger surface area, provide greater stability, catch more waves, and are suitable for surfers of all skill levels. Funboards, being midsized, aim to combine the best features of both shortboards and longboards.

Regarding materials, surfboards with a foam core covered by a hardened fiberglass or epoxy top layer are known as foam surfboards or soft top boards. These boards have a softer construction, made of dense EPS-foam covered with a soft EVA or EPE sheet. Conversely, boards with a hard surface are referred to as hard top boards.

What Surfboard Should I Buy?

If you're seeking your first beginner surfboard, a soft top surfboard might be a good option. They are less fragile than traditional hard top surfboards and are suitable for smaller, less powerful waves. Additionally, consider the size of the board; wider and longer surfboards offer more stability, making it easier for beginners to catch waves and progress more quickly.

For more experienced surfers, a shorter board might be the ideal choice. These boards are designed to handle larger, more challenging waves and offer greater dynamic maneuverability, providing a unique riding experience. However, they require more skill, experience, and paddling power to maximize their potential.

Are you an advanced surfer looking for something new? Then you might want to try hydrofoil surfboards, which offer a completely new kind of experience and surfing possibilities. You can learn more about hydrofoiling on our Hydrofoiling Category Page.